Baptist History

Introduction toBaptist History

(lecture 1)

IntroductionAs we get started I would like to clarify for

you why we study Baptist History at Piedmont Baptist College. What is our rationale? First, we are aware that not all those who study at PBC are Baptists and that has been true throughout most of our history. Second, to study Baptist history is not to suggest that Baptists have a “corner” on Biblical truth. And we certainly do not assert that only Baptists are saved, or that Baptists have some special dispensation from God. Professor William Thompson

Reasons We Study Baptist History

It is our Heritage

We are a Training institution

We are, by conviction, Baptists

Provides a Balanced History

Theological Certainty

(you may have to advance screen manually)

Baptist Principles (Distinctives)

The Baptist Distinctives are NOT primarily a statement of doctrine

They are specific principles, grounded in Scripture, that distinguish the “free church,” baptistic movement from other movements.

You can remember them using the acronym BRAPSIS

Baptist Principles (Distinctives)B – Bible as the only rule for faith and

practiceR – Redeemed church membershipA – Autonomy of the Local ChurchP – Priesthood of the believerS – Soul Liberty (for all people everywhere)I – Immersion and Lord’s Table only

ordinancesS – Separation (both personal and

church/state separation)